Edmonton Eskimos
Cheer Team Blog – Cristina
Oh my! It’s that time of year again; the Edmonton Eskimo Cheer Team auditions for the 101 Grey Cup season. You’d think going into this as a veteran of two years would prepare you for the nerves and the pressure of trying out, but it never does. So much talent rolls in every year and this year is no exception.
The stunt team takes in 14 males or “bases” and seven females or “flyers” and with 15 girls fighting for a spot on the line up, the stakes are high. The skill level keeps increasing each year which makes training that much harder and more exciting. It’s so great to see the buzz of athletes at the cheer gyms working to perfect their routines for this coming Monday March 4th, 2013
As for me, training has been fun but painful at the same time (I’m sure others are in the same boat). Working on new skills means working muscles I’m not used to. The soreness has definitely become a regular feeling these days but I’m hoping that won’t stop because that would mean I’ve stopped improving. I’m trying to push myself this year and if I make the team it will make it all sweeter, but even if I don’t I’ll just keep at it and keep training for next season.
We have actually already had a preliminary round of tryouts two weeks ago. This allowed everyone to get used to how it all works, which is especially helpful to the newcomers. One by one we were called to the center of the purple cheer mat at Perfect Storm Athletics, where we performed out stunts, jumps, basket tossing and tumbling. While this happens, others are being called to the conference room for an interview. This gives the coaches a chance to get to know the hopefuls on a more person level. They’re not only looking for those with the best skills but also those with the best attitude. In this line of work, poise and attitude are everything because positivity breeds success as a team.
I’m really hoping that this Sunday is fun and goes well for all the athletes. Since making Eskimo Cheer Team, all facets of my life have improved seven fold and I WOULD wish that upon anyone. Making the team once again would be so amazing and fill my summer with laughs, hard work and opportunity to meet so many new faces.
So good luck to me and all the hopefuls!
Cristina (flyer)
Spectators are encouraged to come watch the dancers perform two dance routines for the final audition round at Perfect Storm Athletics (18536-111 Avenue) on Sunday, March 10 at 1:00pm.